Bài viết này có ngôn ngữ Tiếng Việt

Ha Long Bay lies in northeastern Vietnam, within Quang Ninh Province, about 165 km from Hanoi. Covering 1,553 km², the bay comprises 1,969 limestone islands and islets (980 of which are named), rising in tiers from emerald waters to form a grand, spectacular seascape shaped over centuries by nature.

An ethereal system of limestone caves lies concealed within stone pillars draped in tropical vegetation, evoking a pristine, mysterious beauty. Bearing traces of the Earth’s geological history, these formations draw visitors from around the world to admire and explore.

In 1994, Ha Long Bay became Vietnam’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding scenic and aesthetic value. Six years later (in 2000), UNESCO granted a second inscription recognizing its geological and geomorphological significance. On September 16, 2023, Ha Long Bay together with the Cat Ba Archipelago (Hai Phong City) was inscribed as a Natural World Heritage Site, marking the first inter-provincial/municipal World Heritage listing in Vietnam.

Ha Long Bay is the 448th entry on the World Heritage List and the first natural World Heritage Site in Vietnam.

The UNESCO-recognized core area of Ha Long Bay covers 434 km², comprising 775 islands, 411 of which are named, featuring numerous rocky islets, caves and stunning beaches. Currently, around 10 caves are open to visitors.

The world natural wonder of Ha Long Bay has been home to local communities for thousands of years, bearing the marks of a long-standing history. Its inhabitants not only preserve but also showcase the bay’s beauty through the region’s distinctive cultural traditions. The harmony between culture and nature creates a vivid portrait of life in this extraordinary setting.

Interestingly, not all of the islands in the bay are accessible. Some remain completely untouched to protect their ecosystems and wildlife. With its rich biodiversity, the bay is home to many rare species. Various birds, fish, and marine creatures together paint a vibrant picture of life within the bay.

Currently, there are five sightseeing routes in Ha Long Bay operated by cruise boats, many of which are built to modern, high-end standards.

Thanks to the advantages of its World Heritage status, combined with strong promotion efforts positioning Quang Ninh as a “safe, friendly, and attractive destination,” tourism in Ha Long – Quang Ninh has experienced remarkable growth since Ha Long Bay was officially inscribed.

Ha Long Bay has been significantly invested in by the local authorities to become one of the best, highest-quality, sustainable, efficient, and visitor-friendly destinations. It now stands as a key highlight in the economic, cultural, social, and tourism development of Quang Ninh Province.

With its outstanding cultural and natural values, Ha Long Bay - recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site is not only an attractive destination for visitors but also a priceless asset of the nation. Its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage have captivated countless travelers. To ensure that this legacy endures, collective efforts are required across all sectors and stakeholders: protecting the heritage, preserving a clean and green environment, promoting its image more broadly, developing new tourism products connected to its cultural value, building a high-quality workforce, and attracting major strategic investors.

Source: Tien Phong News